Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa is committed to providing quality housing solutions to meet the needs of whānau. The organisation is dedicated to addressing the housing crisis, recognising that meaningful change requires collaboration among government agencies, community organisations, and stakeholders.
As a key driver of housing activity within the rohe, the focus is on areas where the most positive impact can be made, particularly affordable rentals and the build-to-rent model. Housing developments are used to develop whānau skills, creating a workforce and providing stable, secure employment.
An integral part of providing housing is the implementation of education programmes that resonate with Māori values. These programmes provide whānau with knowledge in financial literacy, homeownership, and housing rights, empowering them on their housing journey.
The housing crisis in Wairoa is complex and multi-faceted. Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa is uniquely positioned to function as a powerful change agent. Strengths lie in:
Te Rauā is the cornerstone residential housing development for Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa, the first in a series planned for urban and rural Māori land either owned by Tātau or by the Kāhui (iwi and hapū entities). The vision is to create a safe and affordable living environment for a wide range of whānau and kaumātua households, promoting intergenerational wellbeing and whānau ora.
The Te Rauā housing development at 45 Kitchener Street provides affordable housing solutions for our whānau. This residential development supports whānau by offering quality rental options that cater to diverse needs.
At the heart of the development is an innovative kaumātua housing solution, Tokotoko. This includes a large, supported living whare surrounded by smaller standalone homes offering a continuum of housing support that keeps pākeke well and connected to whānau. Te Rauā’s design encourages whānau activities across ages, and with the environment.
In the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle, many families in Wairoa faced unprecedented challenges as their homes were severely damaged, leaving them displaced and struggling for shelter. The temporary housing initiative led by Tātau is in response to this significant devastation. Resources were mobilised, and a partnership with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development was established to deliver temporary homes. These temporary homes, approximately 30 square meters each, are delivered directly to damaged properties, ensuring families can move in quickly and regain stability.
Tātau Tātau o Te Wairoa’s temporary housing approach not only addresses immediate need but also focuses on building healthy environments and long-term resilience within the community. By providing whānau with the means to stay on their land, the initiative fosters independence and continuity. Whānau are offered the option to purchase the temporary homes.